System and kiosk for commerce of optical media through multiple locations

ABSTRACT

A kiosk dispenses and receives recorded optical media using an interconnected central server, through an Internet Service Provider. The central server has databases and processing capabilities and is connected to a credit verification system. The databases collect inventory administration information and customer data (e.g., credit card information and email addresses) from the kiosks. The central server initiates credit verification, sends receipts to customers via email and maintains databases for remote inventory-control and administration of the kiosk network. A kiosk may identify a recorded disk for automated restocking and perform quality assessment of a recorded disk. The kiosk may provide publishing-on-demand or act as a portal for remotely served advertisements. The kiosk preferably includes a rotatable carousel with a selection of DVDs. A digital camera captures a digital image of a disk barcode and internal software rotates the image to “read” the barcode, to control inventory and access issues.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/903,444, filed Jul. 9, 2001 which claims priority to60/216,854, filed Jul. 7, 2000 and is continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/578,631, filed May 25, 2000 now U.S. Pat.No. 7,444,296, each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a method and apparatus for dispensing recordedoptical disks, e.g., DVDs, employing computers and software. Moreparticularly, this invention relates to a method and apparatus forproviding automated retail distribution of recorded optical disks. Stillmore particularly, this invention relates to a method and apparatus forproviding a freestanding distribution and retrieval system for recordedoptical disks, which is linked to a central server computer using theInternet.

Problem

One method commonly used for distribution of optical recorded media is aretail outlet. A retail outlet may sell or rent the optical recordedmedia. A large optical media inventory is common at a retail location,and staff is required for sales, rentals and restocking. A building isrequired to house this inventory and to provide a retail location. Acomputer system is usually employed to track inventory of rentals andsales. A retail outlet for recorded media is very expensive to constructand operate. Because of these factors, there is considerable overheadrequired to run a rental or sales business for recorded media.

Another method of media distribution is a limited scale operation. Aconvenience store might offer a limited selection of items for sale orrent. However, staff is still needed for sales, rentals and restocking.A significant limitation of the retail distribution model for opticalrecorded disks is the overhead required to operate a business.

One way that retailers and manufacturers have sought to reduce costs isthrough electronic commerce (EC). A system of distribution using EC canreduce overhead associated with retail locations and with salesoperations. In this type of business model a central warehouse orwarehouses ship an order submitted via the Internet through the mail orusing a private courier. The cost of operating a retail location isavoided with this business model. However, Internet-based distributionsystems often have significant liabilities. One such liability is that acustomer must wait for an order to be shipped from a warehouse location.Another disadvantage is that stock may not be available at the time theorder is processed. If stock is unavailable, an order may be placed onback-order or the order may be canceled. Another significantdisadvantage of an Internet-based distribution system is theimpracticality for media rental. The rental business is one ofimmediacy; a customer will rent an item that is available immediately,but may not rent if it is not available immediately. A customer is muchless likely to rent an item that is shipped after ordering, requiringdays for delivery. In addition, once a customer is finished with arented item it must be return-shipped to the distribution location.

An advantage of an Internet-based distribution, however, is that acustomer may set up an account, pay electronically, and provideinvaluable information to a retailer, wholesaler or the media industry.What is needed is an Internet-based distribution system that allows acustomer instant distribution or retrieval of optical recorded media(e.g., DVD disks) that does not require a retail outlet with theattendant staff and other costs of doing business. In addition, there isa need to provide automated services for payment and quality assurancesuch that a distribution system is simple and inexpensive to constructand maintain.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above and other problems are solved, and an advance in the art ismade, through the invention by methods and systems for Internet-basedautomated distribution and collection of optical recorded disks.

A first aspect of the invention is the ability to provide automateddistribution of optical recorded disks, such as DVD-type optical disks.A stand-alone automated kiosk serves as a distribution point for anintegrated system of automated distribution linked via the Internet. Thekiosk is an Internet-connected, electro-opto-mechanical system providingstorage, maintenance, marketing and dispensing and retrieval of opticalrecorded disks. A carousel or shuttle system provides access to multiplemedia selections within the kiosk. Multiple kiosks may be connected tothe system via the Internet for simultaneous use by users at differentlocations. Multiple kiosks may further be managed from a centrallocation, such as to provide remote maintenance and efficient operationof commonly-owned multiple kiosks through multiple locations.

In one aspect, a user interacts with the system via a touch screen. Thesystem software guides each customer through the process, preferablyusing linked pages connected to a database. A selection is entered onthe touch screen to choose one or more items for rental or sale. Theselections are added to a “shopping cart,” or a temporary databaserepresented on the display, that is approved by the customer. A creditor debit card or other membership information may be entered using amagnetic strip card reader or other device that imports the data to averification module. Approval or denial of credit is accomplished via alocal database, and/or via a connection to the system central servercomputer, and/or via a connection to banking services. If the credit ordebit is approved, the on-going transaction is attached to a customer,approval for the price of the disk is entered, and a dispensing systemis activated. A database then queries software for the requested itemlocation. A carousel or shuttle system manipulates the media until it isaligned with the dispensing/retrieving slot. A door mechanism isactivated to open, and a mechanism is activated to push the opticalrecorded disk partially out of the slot to make it available for handretrieval by the customer. The disk is contained within a special case,preferably.

In another aspect, the invention provides for emailing transactioninformation to a customer. By way of example, during the disk dispensingoperation, an option to receive an e-mailed receipt is given. The optioncontains a touch-screen keyboard pop-up for the purpose of enteringemail address characters and other data. A consumer enters an emailaddress via the touch screen keyboard. Receipts may includetransactional information as well as advertising and links to specificweb sites. All receipts are given by e-mail reducing the expense of akiosk since a hard-copy receipt printer is not required. Additionally,the system acquires e-mail addresses from customers allowing posttransaction interaction while the consumer is on online. These receiptsmay also contain advertisements and promotional information as well asweb links. These advertisements and promotions may be targeted tocustomers based on their profile data.

Optionally, users of a system of the invention may access the Internetto review one or more kiosks in the area, or elsewhere, so as topre-locate a desired optical media for purchase or rent. Such users mayenter email addresses and purchase information at a computer connectedwith the Internet, and hence with the system, to facilitate theseoperations; these users may then physically access an appropriate kioskto obtain their chosen optical recorded media.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is the ability to receivereturned optical recorded media to the system. The customer activates areturn process by selecting “return rental” button from the touch screenmenu or by presenting the disk to the system bar-code reader or opticalsensor. The carousel or shuttle system positions to accept the disk atthe opening. An initial sensor detects if the recorded disk belongs tothe system and activates a door mechanism to allow placement of therecorded disk in the opening. If the recorded disk does not register asa system disk, the door mechanism will not allow the disk to enter theopening. Once registered, the individual code associated with each itemis entered into the database and the position in the carousel or shuttleis stored. An open transaction is closed when the item is returned andlogged in the database, or sold. The location of each item is stored inthe database upon insertion through the return slot. Recorded disks arestored in case containers specific to the system; these cases mayinclude certain lock and key structures that enable early identificationof the case. Preferably, item-specific identifiers—e.g., barcodes—arepresent on the optical recorded media to further identity of theindividual disk.

Still another aspect of the present invention is automatic restocking ofthe kiosk system. Customers return the optical recorded media to thesystem. A single-touch selection or sensor-activated initiation of thesystem starts the process. The kiosk system rotates the carousel intothe appropriate alignment of the opening to the selected inventory slot.Once in the appropriate alignment, and upon recognition of thesystem-specific barcode, the door opens for acceptance of a casedrecorded disk. As the case passes through, the door mechanism pivots todecline additional insertions until the system is ready. The locationinformation is then stored in the computer, restocking information isdownloaded to the central server, and the disk becomes available forsubsequent rental or sale.

Optionally, users of the system in certain markets (i.e. airports) mayelect for the ability to return the optical media to administration bymeans of a mail-back program. For example, business reply envelopes canbe made available to users at the kiosk and, for an additional cost, cansimplify the return process for the user (i.e. a one way commuter).

In one aspect, the invention provides a “thin client” optical mediarental system. Each kiosk of the system is a thin client connected to acore server through the Internet. As used herein, “thin client” meansthat each kiosk provides basic electro-opto-mechanical functionalitysufficient to perform the operations required at the kiosk; but theoverall system intelligence resides at the core server. This aspectprovides certain advantages to facilitate maintaining a plurality ofconnected kiosks dispensing an array of optical media (e.g., DVDs) atdifferent locations.

In another aspect, the invention provides a special optical mediahousing, typically in the form of a DVD case, with a “lock and key”structure to facilitate automated rental returns. In a related aspect,each such housing has a sensor, e.g., a magnetic actuator, attachedthereto; the kiosk senses the actuator to determine that the casebelongs to the kiosk (or to one of a connected array of kiosks groupedor linked to the central server). Preferably, the case sensor is anoptical sensor formed by a hole and a blocked zone; the kiosk picks upthe right sequence to accept that housing to the kiosk. This process issometimes called “pre-scanning” herein. In pre-scanning, the kiosk willnot open its door to accept a housing with optical media unless thekiosk first detects the case sensor. Preferably, the kiosk door alsoremains closed unless the bar codes are read from the optical recordedmedia, as described below.

In another aspect, once the kiosk determines that the housing isacceptable, the kiosk scans at least one bar code on the optical media.Preferably, two bar codes are read, specifying a “group” association andan individual media identification. A “group” bar code specifies how oneoptical media may travel between kiosks (for example, one distributormay control several kiosks and yet permit returns to any of the kiosks).An “individual media identification” bar code may generally be aserialization of one DVD in an array of DVD disks.

In another aspect, the invention provides a bar code scanning processfor accepting returned optical recorded media to one or more kiosksconnected to a core server. An optical reader scans the optical mediathrough a clear case housing. The case preferably has an indented zonein its center so as to clearly read the bar code(s) through the case.The process preferably performs multiple “reads” of the bar code(s) toensure that the kiosk (and hence the system) correctly identifies theoptical recorded media. In one aspect, the kiosk takes a digital pictureof the media during the return process; it then attempts to read the barcode(s) from the digital picture. If unsuccessful, kiosk software“rotates” the image so as to read the bar code(s) from a differentangle. This process may continue; but it is generally successful withinone or two subsequent rotations.

In yet another aspect, a system of the invention includes a centraldatabase connected to a plurality of kiosks. All transactions such as“rent” and “returned data” at each kiosk are downloaded to the centraldatabase server. Preferably, each kiosk maintains a backup memory ofcertain information from the central database server, so thattransactions may occur even in the event of communication failurebetween the kiosk and database server. By way of example, each kiosk maycontain 12 G-bytes of memory to store the certain information from thedatabase server.

In still another aspect, the invention provides an automated customerprofiling system. The system tracks interactions from customers ateither a connected kiosk or at a computer connected to the databaseserver through the Internet. Customers may be profiled according toindividual information, such as movie-type preferences. Such a systemmay further send and accept “e-coupons” so as to discount certain rentalofferings at one or more local kiosks. By way of example, the system maysend an email to a customer to offer a discount rental for a DVD opticalmedia at a near-by kiosk; that customer may accept the discount byinteraction with the central database server through the Internet, or hemay print the coupon and enter the coupon code at the near-by kiosk.E-coupons may thus incorporate promotion codes as individual numbersthat are entered at the kiosk for discounts; accordingly, in one aspect,a kiosk of the invention includes a keyboard graphically represented atthe kiosk touch screen. In one preferred aspect of the invention,discount magnetic stripe cards (i.e. grocery store club cards) are usedfor promotional discounts. In another preferred aspect of the invention,e-coupons used at a kiosk within the system of the invention may betracked to assess advertising effectiveness.

Users of kiosks of the invention are preferably characterized by uniquecredit card numbers. Information that is attached to a user profilegenerated at a kiosk includes e-mail address and transactional data.Additional information can be initiated through the Internet or added toa pre-existing account, including phone number, address, and/ormembership data

In another aspect, a system of the invention provides real timeinventory of connected kiosks. A user of the system can access theInternet and review the DVDs available at any of the connected kiosks.Inventory statistics are also prepared, preferably; such statistics areuseful for example to flag those movies often rented and those that arenot, so that multiple versions of highly rented movie may be madeavailable to users.

In one aspect, a kiosk of the invention includes a vertical carouselhousing 102 DVDs; the volume footprint of the carousel housing isapproximately 24″×25″×15″. A kiosk with such a carousel may be mountedin four different ways: on a pedestal, on a wall, on a counter-top, orin a wall. In the latter case, a “quick mount” frame is used to housethe kiosk for mounting within a wall, in another aspect. A kiosk of theinvention preferably is “plug and play”, requiring only a phone line anda power cord, to begin operations. By way of example, a user of thekiosk purchases or rents the kiosk for use at his store; he mounts thekiosk on a store wall, plugs the kiosk to 110V power, and connects thekiosk to a phone line, which in turn connects internal kioskintelligence to the central database server.

In another aspect, the mechanical design of a kiosk of the inventionpreferably utilizes a camshaft to time the door, the door lock, and thepinch rollers.

In another aspect, the kiosk is cooled by sinking heat to the housing todissipate internally generated heat, thus eliminating external fans andother means of housing penetration.

In still another aspect, mechanical elements of the kiosk are preferablyextruded and welded to other components in an efficient process flow.

In one aspect, a kiosk of the invention utilizes a card reader andassociated software to read and conduct transactions with magneticstripe cards such as credit cards, debit cards, club cards, or smartcards. In a preferred aspect, the card reader performs ageverifications, to ensure rentals are made to appropriate age groups; assuch, one card reader of the invention also provides for reading driverlicenses or other identification.

One preferred kiosk of the invention includes an advertising module.Advertising information, such as trailers and advertisements, aredownloaded from the central database server and stored on a local drive.Advertising information may be “customized” to any kiosk locationaccording to typical user preferences and, for example, specificdemographics. The advertising information may further include videoadvertisements played at the kiosk for display to users thereby.Play-lists may thus be customized for each location, and locallyselected, but administered centrally through connection between thekiosk and the central server. Simplified administration screensconnecting administrators to the central server facilitate control andselections at a connected kiosk.

Advertisements used in kiosks of the invention may be digital stillimages or motion video in MPEG2 format, or other suitable formats.Advertising files are inventoried on the core server and then downloadedon request to the requested kiosks. This file is then stored locally atthe kiosk (e.g., within kiosk memory) and may be inserted into theadvertising play list in as many slots as needed. The list playscontinually in a looped format during requested hours. Play lists may beshown on an LCD display on the face of the kiosk and/or on additionalexternal monitors.

The invention is next described further in connection with preferredembodiments, and it will become apparent that various additions,subtractions, and modifications can be made by those skilled in the artwithout departing from the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the invention may be obtained byreference to the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates the recorded media distribution system of theinvention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system kiosk, in accord with theinvention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a system central server, in accord with theinvention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram data exchange within the distribution system,according to the invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a system transaction, in accord with theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer system of theinvention, suitable for use with a kiosk or system central serverdatabase;

FIG. 7 is a depiction of a bar code and optical disk used in accord withthe invention;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary perspective view of a preferred embodiment of akiosk, in accord with the invention;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of internal mechanics, including acarousel, for a kiosk of the invention;

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of spindle mechanics for the carouselof FIG. 9, and further illustrates placement of speakers for a kiosk ofthe invention;

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a carousel of the invention;

FIG. 12 shows an encoder and motor for use in a kiosk of the invention;

FIG. 13 shows other internal drive shaft and electromechanicalcomponents within a kiosk of the invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates opto- and electro-mechanical components of a kioskusing digital cameras and input/output mechanics for optical recordedmedia, in accord with the invention;

FIG. 15 shows further detail of the mechanics of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 shows further detail of the mechanics of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 shows camshaft operation detail within a kiosk of the invention;

FIG. 18 shows a front view of a carousel of the invention;

FIGS. 19-22 illustrate additional detail of parts extruded in making thecarousel of FIG. 18;

FIGS. 23-24 show a case for enclosing an optical recorded media, inaccord with the invention; and

FIG. 25 illustrates operation for inserting a disk case into a kiosk, inaccord with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description of the present invention, a methodand system are provided for Internet-based and automated recorded mediadistribution and retrieval; specific details are set forth in order toprovide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will beobvious, however, to a person skilled in the art that the presentinvention may be practiced without these specific details, and changesmay be made to the description herein without departing from the scopeof the invention.

The integrated recorded media distribution system is centered oncombining instant physical access to recorded media with the convenienceof Internet based e-commerce. The system is particularly adapted tosupport Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) recorded media, and other opticallyrecorded disks.

In the preferred embodiment, an Internet-connected central serverintegrates customers, suppliers, employees, kiosks, owners, and thevideo industry in a “Hub and Spoke” system that is preferably automatedand interactive, providing real time business-to-consumer andbusiness-to-business capabilities.

The system kiosks are part of the Hub and Spoke network system. Thekiosks act as brick and mortar spokes, providing a faster, moreconvenient way for customers to obtain and return DVD videos or otheroptical recorded media. Each kiosk is a self-service unit that combineselectromechanical dispensing devices and components, Internetconnectivity and a touch screen monitor for customer interaction. Thecompact nature of the DVD format allows up to 102 disks to be stocked ina kiosk, like the kiosk shown in FIG. 8. The kiosk's small spacerequirement allows placement in high-traffic locations that are moreconvenient than traditional retail locations. Internet connectivityallows customers to have the choice of shopping online or on-site or toaccess a variety of real-time services.

Each kiosk is a self-service unit that includes an internal processor,Internet connectivity, and a touch screen monitor for customerinteraction. The small physical footprint of the kiosk enables it to beplaced in a variety of locations. The kiosks can operate 24 hours a day,7 days a week, providing instant electronic access to products. Thekiosks are fully automated providing customer service through theInternet; on-site staffing is not required to support customer needs.The system web site provides 24-hour access to on-line customer support.It also provides access to specific kiosk inventory, movie trailers andreviews, customer inquiries, special orders, regular individuallytailored e-mailed updates, and overall service. The integrated remotekiosk monitoring system allows low cost inventory management, tailoredmarketing promotions, operations planning, advertising management, andsystem diagnosis.

In the preferred embodiment, the kiosks are physically designed to meetAmerican Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications so that they may beplaced in public facilities. The kiosks also preferably meet otherregulatory requirements of public transportation facilities,universities, and office buildings.

The system central server supports a World Wide Web site. The centralserver includes promotional drivers and accessory services that routethrough the system website in conjunction with the kiosks. Customers mayuse the Internet to query a specific kiosk for availability, or topurchase new and used optical recorded media, register for e-mailedupdates, or to participate in various targeted programs.

The integrated system allows fast transactions. A simple and easy to usetitle search process minimizes shopping time and allows rapidtransactions. Transaction times from walk-up to walk-away can be lessthan 40 seconds and average 2.5 minutes. Return of media is also simple,as the disks only need to be re-inserted into the dispensing/retrievalmechanism. Upon the return of a disk at a kiosk, the internal computerreads individual identification information from the disk and restocksit automatically.

The system allows remote price changes and can also gather up-to-theminute product availability and customer data. Thin-client computingtechnology keeps hardware costs low and speeds up application deploymentby centralizing management, and enhancing security. E-mailed receiptsgenerated from the kiosks through the central server allow ongoingaccess to customers after the completion of the transaction.

Recorded disk pricing may be determined on a kiosk-by-kiosk basis basedon local market conditions. Pricing also varies depending on marketelasticity; for example, premiums may be placed on DVD videos availablein airport terminals. Differentiated pricing can be used for newerreleases vs. older releases. In addition, rental terms and promotionsmay vary based on kiosk locations and the time of week, and can beadjusted remotely on demand.

At a kiosk such as shown in FIG. 8, a graphical user interface (GUI)utilizing a touch screen display provides a user-friendly interface evento consumers lacking computer experience. Once a touch screen isactivated, a computer in the kiosk generates a touch-selectable list ofavailable media: movie genres such as Action, Drama, Romance, andComedy, for example. By touching on one of the genres, a selection ofassociated titles and/or a promotional picture may appear on the screen.Touching an image causes basic information to be displayed about thatmedia such as cost and rating, along with an option to rent or purchasethe media. When selection of media is complete, a credit, debit card,and/or other membership ID is requested to execute the transaction andthen the disk is dispensed to a customer.

Return of rental media is similar; a customer may select “Rental Return”button on a touch screen, and then insert a disk into an opening in thekiosk. An optical scanner first verifies that the disk belongs to thesystem before accepting a disk.

Internet connectivity and a dynamic customer database provide productpromotion capabilities and consumer access. Product information andpromotions may be tailored to each location's demographics andadditionally to each kiosk's rental and sell-through history.Advertising is available on the kiosk, kiosk screen, additionalassociated monitors, disk cases, dispensed coupons, e-coupons, e-mailedreceipts, and through various web-based interactions. Advertising withthe kiosk system provides mechanisms to promote specific marketinginitiatives as well as additional local and global advertising. Thesystem website allows consumers to search for kiosks and to query aspecific kiosk for available content. The website also carries updatedlists of used media for sale at discounted prices at individual kiosks.A customer may reserve and pay for a DVD stocked at a specific kioskfrom the website, then pick up the DVD within a specified time period atthe specific kiosk. Once a customer enters e-mail information at thekiosk or at the website, that customer is eligible to receive frequenttailored e-mailed updates and e-coupons from the central server oncurrent promotions.

Additional products potentially distributed through the kiosks include avariety of recorded media such as books on optical recorded disks, DVDmusic videos, DVD-ROM, DVD video games, DVD-Audio, SA-CDs and CDs. Themodularity of the system allows for easy adoption of additionaldisk-based content distribution.

Some portions of the following detailed description are presented interms of procedures, logic blocks, processing steps, computer programcode and other symbolic representations of data operations within acomputer memory. A procedure, logic block, process, etc., is aself-consistent sequence of steps or instructions leading to a desiredresult. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physicalquantities.

A practitioner will recognize that all of these and similar terms are tobe associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merelyconvenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specificallystated, terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,”“determining,” “displaying,” refer to the action and processes of acomputer system or similar electronic computing device.

FIG. 6 illustrates a computer system 612 suitable for use in the kioskof FIG. 8, or in central server 103, FIG. 1. In general, computer system612 used by the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprisesa bus system 600 for communicating information between systemcomponents. A central processing unit 601 for processing information andinstructions is coupled to bus system 600. A processing unit may be aprocessor, a microprocessor or any group or combination of processors ormicroprocessors. A random-access memory 602 for storing information andinstructions for the central processor 601 is coupled to bus system 600.A read-only memory 603 for storing static information and instructionsfor the processor 601 is coupled to bus system 600. A data storagedevice 604, such as a magnetic or other disk drive, for storinginformation and instructions is coupled to bus system 600. A displaydevice 605 for displaying information to the kiosk user is coupled tobus system 600. An alphanumeric input device 606, including alphanumericand function keys (e.g., a touch screen), for communicating informationand command selections to the central processor 601, may be coupled tobus system 600. A cursor control device 607 for communicating user inputinformation and command selections to the central processor 601 may becoupled to bus system 600. A signal-generating device 608 forcommunicating data or signals between devices external to system 612 andprocessor 601 may be coupled to bus system 600.

FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of an optical diskdistribution system 100. Generally, system 100 distributes recordedoptical media in disk form; for example a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD),or a Compact Disc (CD). A disk, recorded disk, DVD, CD, or recordedoptical media are used interchangeably herein to refer to an opticalrecorded media. System 100 integrates one or more kiosks 101 with aserver system 103 through a virtual network 107 that uses the Internet104. Server system 103 is connected to the Internet 104 also for directlinking to individual email accounts 105 and 105′. Server 103 supports aWorld Wide Web page set 108 for general access by customers using theInternet 104. Generally, access to system web page set 108 supported byserver 103 is through an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that providesan Internet connection for a personal computer 106. Kiosk 101 has adisplay 106 for viewing and entering information. Kiosk 101 dispensesand receives disks 102, via an opening in its front.

FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic embodiment of a kiosk 200 (e.g., kiosk101, FIG. 1). Kiosk 200 is a self-contained unit dispensing system thatcontains computer devices and mechanical devices. A central processingunit 201 is operably connected to a system bus 250. System bus 250 maybe a single bus or a series of busses for communicating data or signalsbetween various devices and central processing unit 201. A memory device202 for storing instructions and/or other information is operablyconnected to system bus 250. A data storage device 203 for storing data,or containing databases and/or other instructions, is connected tosystem bus 250. A display device 204 having alphanumeric inputcapability is operably connected to system bus 250. A magnetic cardreader 211 for reading magnetically imprinted cards is operablyconnected to system bus 250. Any device suitable for uniquelyidentifying a customer such as a smart-card, license reader, fingerprintscanner/identifier, or other identification device may be substitutedfor, or augmented to, magnetic card reader 211 when appropriate. Anoptical reader 205 for reading bar codes is operably connected to systembus 250. Reader 205 may include a digital camera to view optical mediaand an associated housing, to facilitate access control of media to thekiosk. A disk shuttle assembly 206 for accessing and storing disk mediais operably connected to system bus 250. A media storage unit 207 forstoring optical media 214 is contained in kiosk 200. Shuttle assembly206 may be contained in, or integrated with, media storage unit 207 foraccessing optical media 214. A kicker device 208 for dispensing orreceiving optical disk media 214 is operably connected to system bus250. A communications device 216 such as a modem or network connectionis operably connected to system bus 250. An optional audio device 212for providing kiosk sound capability may be connected to system bus 250.An optional DVD-Ram or DVD-ROM drive 213 for reading data from, orwriting data to, optical media may be operably connected to system bus250. An optional coupon-dispensing device 217 may be operably connectedto system bus 250. An optional alarm state recognition device oralgorithm 218 may be connected to system bus 250. An optional secondarytransaction device 219 for processing custom banking processes such aslocal debit card transactions may be connected to system bus 250.

An optional error detection system 209 for detecting damaged opticaldisc media may be internal to or external to kiosk 200. When errordetection system 209 is internal to system kiosk 200, error detectionsystem 209 is operably connected to system bus 250, and DVD-RAM orDVD-ROM drive 213 is operably connected to system bus 250. Otheroutput/input signal devices 210 may be connected to kiosk 200, asneeded. By way of example, one input device 210 includes a digitalcamera for capturing images of persons and/or objects near to kiosk.Such a camera is useful, for example, in capturing the user while he orshe inputs identification or credit card information; later theinformation may be compared to the input data in the case of fraud. Byconnecting camera device 210 to bus 250, images captured thereby may bedownloaded to the central server, as needed, in this process.

An optional advertising device 215 for broadcasting advertising andpromotional materials to additional monitors may be internal or externalto kiosk 200; when advertising device is internal to kiosk 200,advertising device may be operably connected to system bus 250, asshown.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate that kiosk 200 mayalternatively function with computer system 612 as at least part ofinternal schematic items 201, 202, 203, 204.

Each kiosk 200 preferably has a database stored in memory 203 of itskiosk inventory; and this inventory is preferably duplicated at the coreserver 103, FIG. 1. Memory 203 also preferably stores a set of kioskparameters specific to a kiosk. This set is fed from the core server 103and includes any local language translations, logos, color schemes,advertisements or video graphics, and the advertising play list. Alltransactional data passes through to core server 103 and is preferablynot stored, long term, in local memory 203.

Kiosk 200 interacts with a central server preferably as shown in FIG. 1.Central server 103 preferably polls each individual kiosk 103 (e.g.,kiosk 200) for status information, every five or ten minutes, forexample. If the information from kiosk 200 is not normal, then one ormore alarm states are generated to administrators of the central server.Alarm states may be generated for any of a variety of reasons, forexample indicating: that kiosk 200 is not on; an incorrect inventory;security breaches; incorrect readings by any internal device or sensors;and combinations thereof. This feature is very powerful to assist inmanagement of the array of kiosks. Alarm state messages may be relayedto a core server administrator by email, pager messages, cell phones andthe like, and in near real time to indicate a problem at any of theconnected kiosks 101.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a preferred embodiment of a central servercomputer 300. The system central server computer 300 may also becomputer system 612. System server 300 provides command and control andcollects and delivers data to and from kiosk 200. Server computer 300has a central processing unit 301 that is operably connected to serversystem bus 350. A memory device capable of storing instructions 302 isoperably connected to server system bus 350. A database 303 for storingdata is operably connected to system bus 350. A communication device 351capable of transmitting and receiving data or html 304 is operablyconnected to system server bus 350. An optional second communicationdevice 353 for exchanging data for commercial transactions 305 may beoperably connected to server system bus 350. An optional secondarytransaction server device 306 for processing secondary transactionaldata such as grocery store club card data may be operably connected toserver system bus 350; server device 306 may alternatively be aconnection to facilitate connection to a remote server to accomplishlike function.

FIG. 4 depicts a preferred embodiment of the system data transfermechanism 400. Mechanism 400 for example facilitates item 107 of FIG. 1.A virtual network connection 107 provides data exchange between kiosk200, FIG. 2, and server computer 300, FIG. 3. The kiosk-server virtualnetwork system 107 can be a local network system or a remote networksystem that may utilize an html-based data exchange, e.g. an intranet orextranet. The exchange of data in html format includes an html request425 and an html page 435; alternative communications between servercomputer 300 and ISP 401 may occur through signal line 420. Both kiosk200 and server computer 300 may request and receive data using the htmlprotocol, allowing a two-way data-exchange system. The use of the htmlprotocol allows an Internet browser to be a system interface, andadditionally allows system 100, FIG. 1, to be administered by anApplication Service Provider (ASP) using the Internet. An ASP providessoftware applications across the Internet by basing resident software oncentral server 103 that is accessed using an Internet browser. The useof ASP's is desirable where the functionality of a network is desired,but the use of a private server-system is impossible or impractical. AnInternet Service Provider (ISP) 401 may also be an ASP. ISP 401 providesa connection to the Internet to individual computer users.

Exchange of data using virtual network 107, FIG. 1, is accomplished in asecure manner using methods of data encryption and decryption known inthe art. Secure transfer of data through ISP 401 provides a virtualprivate network connection. An additional data exchange may occur on adedicated private network connection for banking services, oralternatively using a virtual network as in item 107. Server computer300 may obtain credit or debit or other membership authorization usinginformation received from a customer. A credit authorization request 412is transmitted from server 300 to a bankcard verification service 410,which generally is a secure server computer. After receiving creditauthorization request 412, bankcard verification service 410 processescredit authorization request 412, and transmits a response 411 to servercomputer 300. Response 411 is conveyed to kiosk 200, FIG. 2, throughvirtual network 107, FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a preferred embodiment of a disk-dispensingtransaction process 500, in accord with the invention. Process 500begins with a request to dispense a media selection from kiosk 200, FIG.2, in step 501. Information including, for example, credit-card number,and/or license or identification information, is next received from acustomer to kiosk 200, in step 502. Kiosk 200 then securely transmitsdata received in step 502 to ISP 401, FIG. 4, in step 503. Data securelytransmitted in step 503 is received to ISP 401 in step 504. Datareceived to ISP 401 in step 504 is securely transmitted to system server300, FIG. 3, in step 505. Data securely transmitted to system server 300in step 505 is next received at system server 300 in step 506. Systemserver 300 next securely transmits debit and/or credit authorizationrequest data to a credit verification server in step 507. System server300 next securely receives credit authorization data from a creditverification service in step 508. System server 300 next securelytransmits authorization data received in step 508 to ISP 401 in step509. In step 510, data transmitted by system server 300 in step 509 isreceived by ISP 401. In step 511, ISP 401 securely transmits to kiosk200 authorization to dispense requested media received from systemserver 300 in step 510. In step 512, kiosk 200 securely receivesauthorization to dispense media transmitted from ISP 401. Optionally, instep 513, an email address is securely received for customer. In step514, kiosk 200 dispenses requested media to a customer. In step 515,system server 300 transmits to ISP 401 an e-mail receipt for a debittransaction occurring in steps 507 and 508 for an e-mail addresssupplied in step 513. In step 516, ISP 401 transmits email receipt datareceived from system server 300 in step 515 to an email address receivedin step 513.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 7, an opticalbar code 701 uniquely identifies each recorded disk 700. A region on thecase between the media outside diameter 705, and the center region 704may be used for a label region 702. A center region 704 exists betweenthe label region 702 and the center hole 703. The center region 704 maycontain printed information (e.g., a bar code) on both single-sided anddouble-sided optical media. For recorded disk 700, barcode 701 is readby capturing a digital picture of barcode 701, and then internalsoftware to kiosk 200 rotates an image of barcode 701 to perform one ormore “pseudo” scans of barcode 701.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary perspective-view embodiment of a kiosk 200, FIG.2. A kiosk housing 900 forms an enclosure. The outer dimensions ofhousing 900 may be about 25″ tall, 25″ wide, and 15″ deep. A computer,e.g., computer 612, FIG. 6, or CPU 201, FIG. 2, is included insidehousing 900. A touch screen display 904 is positioned on the front ofhousing 900. Display 904 may show advertising play list images and movietrailers in addition to providing user interface functions describedherein. An input/output slot 940 is positioned on the front of housing900 to dispense and receive optical recorded media disks. A magneticstrip reader 911 is positioned on the front of housing 900. A transfermechanism/controller is included in housing 900 to manipulate disks intoand out of housing 900. This transfer mechanism may be shuttle/carousel206, FIG. 2, or the structures illustrated in FIGS. 9-18

In the preferred embodiment, touch screen display 904 has an LCD backedup by a metal plate to protect internal components should the LCD break.Around display 904 is a cast bezel 920, providing protection for thecustomer and the display 904. The display LCD may be sealed to bezel 920to protect it from fluids and moisture. Bezel 920 is angled at the top921 to discourage people from placing objects on it.

Access to inside of housing 900 is through a cam lock 924. Access withinhousing 900 facilitates mounting or dismounting of housing 900 to wallsor other surfaces; internal access is also used to access power andcommunications connections. The key for cam lock 924 cannot be removedin the unlocked position.

Magnetic strip reader 911 is used by kiosk 200, FIG. 2, to identify acustomer or member, and/or to bill the customer, and/or to verify age.Reader 911 is thus preferably usable with magnetic strips used indriver's licenses, credit cards, membership cards, student body cards,etc.

All cases and optical media inventory normally enter and exit thruInput/output slot 940. Housing 900 and slot 940 thus cooperate toprotect media inventory; specifically, inventory cannot be removed fromhousing 900 (e.g., by stealing) without breaking the housing and opticalmedia. Authorized access can only occur through use of cam lock 924 andspecial tools used to disassemble the carousel from the spindle(described in more detail below). Slot 940 is also constructed toprevent a person from inserting a finger into internal workingmechanisms.

Cast covers 926 and 927 protect input/output mechanisms of slot 940, andfurther shields the bar code scanner/camera (described in more detailbelow) housed internally to housing 900. Cast covers 926 and 927 mayonly be removed from the inside with tools.

Housing 900 includes a sheet metal enclosure 901 with welded seams 903to protect internal components from moisture, dirt and vandalism. Sheetmetal enclosure 901 is shaped to provide a 5-degree back-angle tilt tothe faceplate 907. This angle assists in viewing LCD 904 as well asproviding a gravitational vector that assists the seating of disks incarousel 950. Enclosure 901 has a flat bottom to allow for counter-topinstallation, and a sloped top to discourage customers from placingobjects on the kiosk. Kiosk 200, FIG. 2, runs without an externalcooling fan and mounts easily on a wall, thru a wall, on a countertop,or on a pedestal. Enclosure 901 serves as a “heat sink” to radiate heatfrom heat-generating inner components, such as a computer 612, and drivemotors (described in more detail below). Housing 900 also has afull-length side piano hinge 905 to protect the kiosk from vandalism andcontamination. A cast main faceplate 907 serves as the front of housing900 and provides a mechanically stable platform for the working elementsof kiosk 200; it also serves to deter penetration by vandals. Theremaining seam 909 between faceplate 907 and enclosure 901 is baffledand gasketed to protect against penetration by mechanical means or bydust or liquids.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of electromechanical elements that areinternal to housing 900. A carousel 950 that rotates to dispense opticaldisks holds 102 cases; carousel 950 is lightweight and easy to fabricateusing interlocking aluminum extrusion. The extrusions after assembly arejigged and welded to minimize run-out and to assure stability. Carousel950 is preferably driven by chain drive 952 to ensure “no-slip”operation. An eject mechanism 954 dispenses optical recorded media fromhousing 900, through input/output slot 940; mechanism 954 connects tofaceplate 907 by two mechanical screws. One cable (not shown) serves topower and control mechanism 954, via the internal computer and connectedpower. A servo-controller and RS232-485 converter 956 drives thecarousel motor 958. Carousel drive motor 958 may, for example, mountwithin housing 900 by three mechanical screws; two cables generallyconnect to motor 958 to provide power and electrical control.

FIG. 10 shows further detail of internal mechanics of kiosk 200, FIG. 2,within enclosure 900, FIG. 8. A spindle assembly 960 holds carousel 950for rotation thereon. FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of carousel 950alone. Each slot 951 of carousel 950 holds one optical media disk withina case, described in more detail below. Carousel 950 has a central hub953 for mounting on spindle assembly 960. Carousel 950 is removed fromspindle assembly 960 by three mechanical screws (not shown). FIG. 10also shows a more detailed view of speakers 962, providing audibletones, music and communications to users of kiosk 200. Speakers 962 forexample may be audio device 212 of kiosk 200, FIG. 2.

FIG. 12 shows an encoder 970 that is used by kiosk 200 to accuratelyposition carousel and spindle 950, 960. The standoffs 972 act assupports and as preload springs for drive chain 952. A sprocket 974drives chain 952 and, thereby, carousel 950. Gear motor 958 provides thetorque and speed to accurately position carousel 950.

FIG. 13 shows further detail of mechanical components within housing900. The gear motor 959 rotates cam 980 to move eject arm 976 in and ata controlled speed and position. Optical sensors 978 provide feedbackwith motor 959 to accurately position eject arm 976 in the “Out”position (i.e., clear for carousel rotate) and in the “In” position(i.e., arm 976 is in position for kiosk 200 to sense an incoming case).A flag 992 trips optical sensors 978 above. An optical sensor 982provides additional feedback indicating that an eject maneuver is infully ejected position; a flag 988 trips optical sensor 982 inperforming this function. An optical sensor 984 picks up a flag oncarousel 950 as a home reference for carousel position. The offset valueis adjusted in operating software. A reflective optical sensor 986senses the presence of a case in a slot 951, FIG. 11. A mechanicalswitch 990 senses a case during a return to a slot 951. Eject arm 976supports mechanical case switch 990 and pushes a case into theinput/output rollers (described below) during an eject cycle.

FIG. 14 shows additional features of a kiosk of the invention, includinginternal electro-optical and electromechanical components to facilitatethe operations herein. FIG. 14 specifically shows these components usedin conjunction with the input/output slot 940, FIG. 8. A digital camera1000 couples to a mount 1002, as shown. One suitable camera for camera1000 is a 3Com 00371800 HomeConnect PC Digital Camera. Camera 1000captures an image approximately 1.6″ in diameter, through itsillustrative field of view 1003. This image is then processed by theinternal kiosk computer (e.g., computer 612, FIG. 6) to assess barcodes,patterns and/or characters on a disk 700, FIG. 7. A special pattern maybe placed on optical media label 702 and next to barcodes 701 to deterfraud. Barcodes 701 captured by camera 1000 as a digital image can bedecoded at various angles. The image is stored locally or at the coreserver 103, FIG. 1, for post processing should an issue arise regardinga related transaction. Illumination for camera 1000 in capturing thedigital image is through active illumination (e.g., a light). A gearmotor 1004 provides the torque and speed to accurately position a casein or out of a slot 951. A gear motor 1006 provides the torque and speedto accurately drive a cam that operates the door, door lock and pinchrollers (discussed below).

FIG. 15 shows additional features of a kiosk of the invention, includinginternal electro-optical and electromechanical components to facilitatethe operations herein. FIG. 15 specifically shows these components usedin conjunction with the input/output slot 940, FIG. 8. A ridge 1012provides relief for the post machining of cast main plate 907, andfurther provides a reference for gasketing and a shield againstmechanical penetration. Cable routing apertures 1014 facilitate cableconnections through bezel 920; cable routing apertures 1015 facilitatecable connections through main plate. 907. Drive gears 1016 rotate theintake/output rollers 1018. A pair of case glides 1020 physically guidesa case into and out of kiosk 200.

FIG. 16 shows additional detail of the input and output mechanism ofkiosk 200. The pinch rollers 1030 force a case through guides 1020against the intake/output rollers 1018, FIG. 15, and also set the caseduring a return. A door 1032 prevents an unauthorized case or objectfrom entering the kiosk and shields inventory when carousel 950 isrotating. The case sensors 1034 determine whether a case is valid totrigger an image read by camera 1000, FIG. 14. The activation sequenceof sensors 1034 is used to determine if a case is removed prematurelyduring a return cycle or if a case is adequately ejected during anoutput cycle. The case sensor LEDs 1036 provide the operating light forcase sensors 1034. Optical sensors 1038 provide the feedback required toposition camshaft 1048 (FIG. 17). Sensor 1038 (a “door closed” sensor)may be used to show when door 1032 is fully closed so that carousel 950can be safely rotated with a clear doorway. A door lock 1040automatically latches and locks door 1032 as soon as a case clears thedoorway during either an input or output cycle.

FIG. 17 shows additional features of a kiosk of the invention, includinginternal electro-optical and electromechanical components to facilitatethe operations herein. FIG. 17 specifically shows these components usedin conjunction with the input/output slot 940, FIG. 8. A flag 1042 trips“door closed” sensor. A door cam 1033 operates to open and close door1032. A door lock cam 1044 operates the door lock 1040. A gear 1046drives camshaft 1048 for cams 1033, 1044, and 1052. Three flags 1050position cam shaft 1048 in following four distinct positions:

Door 1032 closed and lockable; pinch rollers 1030 open

Door 1032 open and unlocked; pinch rollers 1030 open

Door 1032 open; pinch rollers 1030 closed

Door 1032 closed and locked; pinch rollers 1030 closed

Two pinch roller cams 1052 move pinch rollers 1030 to closed and openpositions.

FIG. 18 shows a front view of carousel 950. Carousel 950 is preferablyextruded as a series of parts shown in detail within FIGS. 19-22. FIG.19 shows the center extrusion hub 950 a. FIG. 20 shows the inner ringextrusion 950 b. FIG. 21 shows the spoke extrusion 950 c. FIG. 22 showsthe outer ring extrusion 950 d. Carousel 950 is thus extruded in threemain sections: (1) the center extrusion hub 950 a has the inside portion1200 of the disk alignment fins and slots for the spoke extrusions 950c; (2) the spoke extrusions 950 c are notched at 1202 to align with theslots in the center extrusion hub 950 a and ring extrusions 950 b, 950d; and (3) outer ring extrusion 950 d contains outside disk alignmentfins 1204 and is also slotted at 1206 to accept spoke extrusions 950 c.The finished outer ring extrusion consists of six sections 950 d weldedtogether with six spoke extrusions 950 c to complete carousel 950.

FIG. 23 shows an inside view of one case 1100 suitable for housingoptical recorded media for input and output with a kiosk 100 such asdescribed in connection with FIGS. 8-17. FIG. 24 shows an outside viewof case 1100. FIG. 7 shows case 1100 in a closed position, housing disk700. FIG. 25 illustrates case operation through intake slot 940. A disk700 sits within insert molds 1102 and around central hub 1104. Case 1100has a hole 1106 used by sensors 1034 to detect whether case 1100 issuitably keyed for kiosk 200, FIG. 2. Intake Slot 940 is shaped to aligncase 1100 with sensors 1034, FIG. 16, in the kiosk intake housing. Anexample of keying is as follows: one sensor 1034A is aligned with hole1106, providing an “open position”, and the 2nd sensor 1034B is blockedby the case 1100 in a “closed position”. Arrows 1130 indicate commondirection for the case 1100 inserted into slot 940.

In operation, the intake mechanisms of kiosk 200 preferably operateaccording to the following steps:

After dispensing a disk, carousel 950, FIG. 11, is rotated such that anavailable return position is adjacent the input/output slot 940, FIG. 8;the return position being a slot 951 that does not contain a disk 700.

To initiate a return, a “return rental” button is triggered at the touchscreen display 904, FIG. 8.

A disk 700 within a case 1100 is inserted into the intake slot 940, FIG.8, until it reaches a door stop 1032; at this position, sensors 1034 oncase 1100 are read to activate the barcode scanning process.

Barcode 701, FIG. 7, is read: the barcode image is scanned to acquirethe appropriate code response; if the code is not acquired, the image isrotated 30 o and is re-scanned; this cycle is repeated until the codesare acquired, or for a maximum of three cycles. Once the code isdecoded, bar code 701A, FIG. 7, is read to determine which group codedisk 700 is associated with; if cleared, kiosk door 1032, FIG. 16, isopened by rotating cam shaft 1048. The group code 701A identifies thedisk as originating from a specific “kiosk group”. Door 1032 is openedif the kiosk is associated with the group code. Concurrently, the kioskreads a serialized code from bar code 701B to identify the individualdisk 700 and to register it with the disk inventory database. Theinventory database information is eventually relayed to core server 103,FIG. 1.

If a disk is accepted, the cam motor rotates camshaft 1048 to unblockdoor 1032 and then to clamp rollers 1018, FIG. 15, onto the case. Theintake roller motor is activated to pull the case into a carousel slot951. The camshaft continues to rotate to prep the door block spring. Atthe end of the intake motion, the case clears the door and allows thedoor block spring to move the intake block into a closed position. Theintake rollers complete the transport of the disk into a free carouselslot 951.

A rear slot sensor 986, FIG. 13, verifies the existence of a case in theslot and sensor 990 verifies the completed transport of the case throughthe intake rollers 1018, FIG. 15, and into carousel 950.

A transaction finishes with the insertion of the serialized diskinformation into database tables.

In operation, kiosk 200 has a resting state that performs the followingsteps:

Door 1032 is locked.

Eject arm 976, FIG. 13, is in a read position.

Carousel 950 is held at an open slot 951.

Rollers 1018 are opened.

In operation, kiosk 200 preferably operates to accept returns (e.g.,recorded disk media 700, FIG. 7, in a case 1100, FIGS. 23-24) accordingto the following sequential steps and/or states:

Kiosk 200 is in a resting state.

A return-rental button is triggered by a user of the kiosk, by pressinga graphical representation of the button on touch screen 904. Thereturn-rental button triggers activation of the light for camera 1000.

A user inserts a disk 700, within a case 1100, to slot 940.

Kiosk case sensor reads case 1100.

Kiosk reads disk bar code 701.

Kiosk rollers 1018 close.

Kiosk door 1032 opens.

Intake roller 1018 on.

Door 1032 ready to close.

Case-in switch 990 read.

Rollers 1018 stop.

Door 1032 closes and locks.

Eject arm 976 retracts.

Carousel 950 moves to open position.

Rollers 1018 open.

Eject arm 976 moves to read position.

Kiosk in resting state.

In operation, kiosk 200 preferably operates in a rental transactionaccording to the following sequential steps and/or states:

Kiosk in resting state.

Sensors 1034A and 1034B checked for intake blockage.

Eject arm 976 retracts.

Carousel 950 moves to position.

Door 1032 opens.

Disk 700 ejected.

Rollers 1018 close.

Output roller 1018 on.

Disc 700 in case 1100 removed.

Door 1032 closes and locks

Carousel 950 moves to open slot 951.

Eject arm 976 moves to read position.

Kiosk 200 in resting state

The above is a description of a method and system for Internet-basedautomated disk distribution and retrieval. It is expected that otherswill design alternative methods and systems for Internet-based diskdistribution using stand-alone automated kiosks as set forth in theclaims below either literally of through the Doctrine of Equivalents.

1. A kiosk for coordinated operation within a system for distributingoptical recorded media to users at a plurality of locations, a centralserver controlling the system, the kiosk comprising: a housing, and arotatable carousel within the housing, for storing an array of opticalmedia; a user interface for accepting user inputs, including a selectedoptical medium from the array of optical media, and for displayinginformation; a reader for scanning user authorization information; aprocessor controlling the kiosk in communication with the centralserver; an input/output mechanism for dispensing and receiving one ofthe array of optical media through a slot in the mechanism, the carouselrotating in response to commands by the processor to align the selectedoptical media with the slot and the input/output mechanism dispensingthe selected optical media when the central server communicates, to thekiosk, acceptance of the authorization information, wherein the carouselcomprises a set of spokes and concentric rings, the concentric ringsbeing separated from one another and connected to one another by thespokes, a first of the concentric rings including a series of outerextruded slots facing a series of inner extruded slots on a second ofthe concentric rings, each of the array of optical media held betweenopposing inner and outer extruded slots and adjacent to the spokes.
 2. Akiosk of claim 1, wherein the user interface comprises a touch screen.3. A kiosk of claim 1, wherein the array of optical media comprises anarray of DVDs.
 4. A kiosk of claim 1, wherein the reader comprises amag-stripe reader for capturing at least one of a credit, debit, or clubcard number.
 5. A kiosk of claim 1, further comprising a hub forming acenter of the carousel, the hub coupling with the spokes.
 6. A kiosk ofclaim 1, the carousel constructed and arranged to hold approximately 102optical recorded media.
 7. A kiosk of claim 1, further comprisinginternal memory for storing selected information redundant to thecentral server.
 8. A kiosk of claim 1, the input/output mechanism andprocessor cooperating to accept data from returned optical media to thekiosk, for storage within the carousel.
 9. A kiosk of claim 8, furthercomprising a digital camera for capturing a digital image of thereturned optical media.
 10. A kiosk of claim 9, the processorelectronically scanning the image to decode one or more bar codes on thereturned optical media.
 11. A kiosk of claim 10, the processor rotatingthe image if the processor fails to decode the bar codes, the processorscanning the rotated image to decode the one or more bar codes of thereturned optical media.
 12. A kiosk of claim 8, further comprising afirst case sensor light and a first case sensor proximate auser-accessible door in the housing, the first case sensor lightilluminating light through a case containing the returned optical media,the processor determining whether the case may be accepted within theinput/output mechanism based on signals from the first case sensor, theinput/output mechanism being between the user-accessible door and theinner and outer extruded slots of the carousel.
 13. A kiosk of claim 12,further comprising a second case sensor light and a second case sensorproximate a user-accessible door in the housing, the second case sensorlight illuminating light to the case, the processor determining whetherthe case may be accepted within the input/output mechanism based onsignals from the first and second case sensors, the input/outputmechanism being between the user-accessible door and the inner and outerextruded slots of the carousel.
 14. A kiosk of claim 1, wherein thehousing comprises one or more weld joints forming an enclosure about thecarousel and with the user interface and input/output mechanism.
 15. Akiosk of claim 1, further comprising one or more recorded optical mediawithin the carousel.
 16. A kiosk of claim 1, further comprising a firstmotor for rotating the carousel and a second motor connected to one ormore cams for opening and closing a door to the input/output mechanism,the first and second motors being responsive to controls by one or bothof the processor and central server.
 17. A kiosk of claim 1, furthercomprising a case presence sensor for detecting whether a case is withina slot of the carousel.
 18. A kiosk of claim 1, the input/outputmechanism comprising a feedback sensor and an eject arm, the feedbacksensor sensing position of the eject arm for dispensing or retrievingoptical media through the slot in the mechanism.
 19. A kiosk of claim 1,wherein optical media secured within the kiosk is accessible onlythrough the slot in the mechanism.
 20. The kiosk of claim 1, wherein theinner extruded slots and the outer extruded slots face each other in alongitudinal direction of the spokes.